The Power of Written Words (Words #2)

We’re continuing to talk about the power of words. But now we’re going to talk about the written word – this can be letters, emails, texts, Facebook, snapchat etc. Basically any form of social media. What you put out on social media, and what you read on it, is more important than you may think.

The thing with written words is that they’re always in front of us, so we meditate on them. This can be good or bad, depending on what has been said to us. It’s also very easy to misunderstand words when they’re written down. When we speak face to face, we communicate through facial expression, tone of voice, and body language. But with social media you have none of that, you only have words. And this can cause so much conflict, because most conflict comes from misunderstanding.

Unfortunately social media can also be used as a tool to hurt others. Rumours can spread a lot quicker over internet than face to face. Cyber bullying can have a terrible affect on someone’s life. What you say on the internet counts. It’s still real life, and it effects people’s lives. It’s not so simple as just deleting a bad message and the internet can affect the way others treat us in person.

The hurtful things we say to each other grieves the Holy Spirit. God cares about the way we speak to each other, because we’re all his children. God is looking intently to see whether we will build each other up, or tear each other down!

Is what you share and say helpful? It’s not about being super spiritual, but building others up. It’s about saying what is good, encouraging, helpful or even funny. So people just become better for being around you, and hearing what you have to say.

Don’t put out mindless junk, don’t stir up drama. Drama will only hurt others, who will then hurt you back. Break the chain and choose to speak only what is good.